Vaassen Chiropractic & Acupuncture Clinic

Vaassen Chiropractic & Acupuncture Clinic Our Mission is to provide well-being to the families we serve by following the natural path to healing with uniquely individualized and professional care.

Our Mission at Vaassen Chiropractic & Acupuncture is to provide well-being to the families we serve by providing the most uniquely individualized and professional care available. We aim for our patients to follow the natural path to optimal health through the benefits of chiropractic, acupuncture, and nutrition. Dr. Amy Vaassen specializes in chiropractic, acupuncture, nutrition, low level laser, and EB cellular cleanse therapy.

11/17/2025

FACT of the Week:
Chiropractic care helps shoulder pain by restoring joint alignment, reducing inflammation, and improving the shoulder's range of motion through manual adjustments, massage therapy, therapeutic exercises, and other physical rehabilitation techniques. A chiropractor will develop a personalized treatment plan to address the specific cause of your pain, which can include conditions like rotator cuff injuries, frozen shoulder, or muscle strains. This approach aims to alleviate pain and restore function without the need for surgery or medication in many cases.

11/12/2025

FACT of the Week:
How acupuncture may help with ear infections
Supports the immune system:
Some studies suggest that acupuncture can increase the number of white blood cells and T-cells, which helps the body fight off infections.
Reduces inflammation:
Stimulating certain points may help reduce swelling and inflammation associated with ear infections.
Alleviates pain:
Acupuncture can stimulate the release of natural painkillers like endorphins, which helps manage pain.
Improves circulation and drainage:
Specific points on the ear can be stimulated to improve blood flow to the head and inner ear and to promote better lymphatic drainage.
Treats associated symptoms:
It can also help with related symptoms like ear pressure or congestion, especially if they are linked to sinus issues.

10/20/2025

FACT of the Week:
Chiropractic care can help alleviate sciatica pain by addressing the underlying cause of nerve compression. Here's how:
Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractors use spinal adjustments to correct misalignments in the spine that may be putting pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can reduce inflammation and improve nerve function.
Soft Tissue Manipulation: Chiropractors may perform soft tissue techniques, such as massage and stretching, to release muscle tension and spasms that can contribute to sciatica pain.
Traction: Spinal decompression or traction therapy can help to create space between the vertebrae, reducing pressure on the nerve.
Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected area can reduce inflammation and muscle spasms.
Exercise and Rehabilitation: Chiropractors may recommend specific exercises and stretches to strengthen the core muscles, improve posture, and reduce strain on the sciatic nerve.
Other Interventions: In some cases, chiropractors may use additional modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or acupuncture to enhance treatment outcomes.

10/13/2025

How acupuncture reduces stress
Acupuncture involves inserting very thin needles into specific points on the body, which modern science suggests stimulates the nervous system and promotes the body's natural relaxation responses. This process includes:
Regulating the nervous system: Acupuncture helps shift the body from a "fight or flight" stress response to a more balanced "rest and digest" state. This lowers physical stress symptoms like high blood pressure and an elevated heart rate.
Balancing stress hormones: Studies show acupuncture can regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is responsible for the body's stress response. This leads to a reduction in cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone.
Releasing feel-good chemicals: The treatment prompts the release of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. These natural neurochemicals can reduce pain, boost mood, and create a sense of well-being and relaxation.
Improving circulation: Acupuncture enhances blood flow, which can alleviate physical tension and promote overall relaxation.

10/06/2025

FACT of the Week:
A chiropractor for scoliosis can develop a non-invasive, drug-free scoliosis treatment plan that addresses multiple symptoms. While chiropractors are unable to straighten your spine completely, studies have shown a marked improvement in spine curvature, pain, and disability rating among those with scoliosis.May 8, 2020

09/29/2025

FACT of the Week:
Acupuncture, a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), may offer several benefits for managing stress and related conditions.
Here's how acupuncture is believed to help:
Regulating the Nervous System: Acupuncture can help balance the autonomic nervous system, shifting the body from a "fight or flight" (sympathetic) state to a more relaxed "rest and digest" (parasympathetic) state. This can reduce physical symptoms of stress like elevated heart rate and blood pressure.
Increasing Endorphin Production: Acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers and mood enhancers, leading to a sense of well-being and reduced perception of pain and stress.
Modulating the HPA Axis: Research suggests that acupuncture may help regulate the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, the body's central stress response system. This can lead to a reduction in cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone.
Enhancing Blood Flow and Oxygenation: Acupuncture can promote blood flow and oxygenation, which can help alleviate physical tension and promote overall relaxation, according to Acupuncture & Holistic Health Associates.
Balancing Neurotransmitters: Acupuncture has been shown to modulate neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play crucial roles in mood regulation, notes acu585.com. This can help promote a sense of well-being and emotional balance.
Improving Sleep Quality: Stress often disrupts sleep patterns. Acupuncture can promote relaxation and regulate neurotransmitters involved in the sleep-wake cycle, leading to improved sleep quality.

09/23/2025

FACT of the Week:
Chiropractic care offers numerous benefits for children, including improved posture, enhanced nervous system function, better sleep, and reduced risk of injury. It can also support healthy brain development, improve behavior, and help manage conditions like colic, ear infections, and asthma.
Specific benefits include:
Improved Posture:
Chiropractic adjustments can help correct spinal misalignments caused by factors like technology use or sports injuries, promoting better posture and preventing future problems.
Enhanced Nervous System Function:
The nervous system is crucial for overall health, and chiropractic care can help it function optimally, supporting brain development and overall well-being, according to Accident Care Chiropractic.
Better Sleep:
By addressing spinal misalignments and reducing discomfort, chiropractic care can help children sleep more soundly, says Paragon Sport Spine & Wellness.
Reduced Injury Risk:
Children are prone to falls and injuries, and chiropractic care can help prevent musculoskeletal issues by ensuring proper alignment, minimizing the risk of future injuries.
Improved Digestion:
Chiropractic adjustments can support digestive health, potentially alleviating issues like colic, reflux, and constipation.
Enhanced Brain Development:
Proper spinal alignment is crucial for healthy brain development, and chiropractic care can help optimize brain function, potentially improving focus and concentration.
Better Behavior:
Misalignments in the spine and nervous system can contribute to behavioral issues, and chiropractic care can help alleviate stress and tension, leading to improved behavior and emotional regulation.
Support for Immune and Digestive Systems:
Chiropractic care can help boost the immune system and improve digestion, potentially reducing the frequency of illnesses and digestive problems.

09/15/2025

FACT of the Week:
MediHerb Boswellia Complex supports healthy joints by reducing inflammation and providing pain relief for conditions like mild arthritis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatism. It also promotes healthy circulation, offers antioxidant benefits, and supports kidney function. The formula combines Boswellia, Turmeric, Celery Seed, and Ginger to deliver synergistic effects and may help protect cartilage and maintain joint mobility.
Key Benefits
Joint Health & Pain Relief: Helps to temporarily relieve the pain and inflammation associated with mild arthritis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatism by inhibiting the formation of leukotrienes.
Inflammation Reduction: Boswellia, a primary ingredient, contains boswellic acids, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Antioxidant Activity: The blend provides antioxidant benefits to protect the body from oxidative stress and cellular damage.
Healthy Circulation :Supports and maintains healthy blood flow, which is crucial for delivering nutrients to joints and removing waste products.
Supports Kidney Function: Aids in the normal function of the kidneys.

09/08/2025

FACT of the Week:

Erchonia infrared lasers help with pain by using low-level laser therapy (LLLT), also called cold laser therapy, to stimulate photobiomodulation in damaged cells. This increases ATP (energy), reduces inflammation and swelling, and promotes tissue healing. The laser also decreases nerve sensitivity and blocks pain signals, while stimulating the body's production of natural pain-killing chemicals like endorphins.
How Erchonia Laser Therapy Works
Stimulates Cellular Energy (ATP):The red and near-infrared light from the laser penetrates injured tissues, stimulating cells to produce more ATP, which is the cell's energy source, facilitating healing and function.
Reduces Inflammation and Swelling:The light energy promotes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and increases lymphatic fluid drainage, which helps to move inflammatory waste away from the injured site.
Boosts Pain-Killing Chemicals:LLLT can increase the production of the body's natural pain relievers, such as endorphins and enkephalins.
Blocks Pain Signals:The laser decreases the sensitivity of nerve endings and interferes with the neural transmission of pain signals to the brain, which reduces pain perception.
Promotes Tissue Repair:By initiating a healing response in damaged cells, the laser helps to restore cell function and accelerates the natural tissue repair process.

09/02/2025

FACT of the Week:

Acupuncture may help with fertility by regulating hormones, improving blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, and reducing stress, all of which can positively impact a woman's ability to conceive. For men, it may also improve s***m quality and count when combined with other treatments.
How Acupuncture Can Help:
Hormone Regulation:
Acupuncture can help regulate hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and others involved in ovulation and menstruation, promoting a more balanced and fertile cycle.
Increased Blood Flow:
Acupuncture can improve blood circulation to the reproductive organs, including the uterus and ovaries, potentially thickening the uterine lining and optimizing egg quality.
Stress Reduction:
Stress can negatively impact fertility. Acupuncture can help reduce stress and anxiety by stimulating the release of endorphins, promoting relaxation, and potentially improving overall well-being.
Improved S***m Quality (for Men):
Acupuncture, when used alongside conventional medical treatments, may improve s***m count and motility in men.
Acupuncture and Fertility Treatments:
Complementary Therapy:
Acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional fertility treatments like IVF and ovulation induction.
Improved IVF Outcomes:
Some studies suggest acupuncture can improve clinical pregnancy rates, especially in women with previous failed IVF cycles.
Holistic Approach:
Acupuncture, combined with other therapies like herbal medicine, can provide a holistic approach to fertility treatment.

08/25/2025

FACT of the Week:
Yes, a chiropractor can help with plantar fasciitis. Chiropractic care offers a holistic approach to managing plantar fasciitis by addressing the root causes of the condition and promoting healing through various techniques, according to foot and ankle specialists. They focus on improving foot and ankle alignment, reducing inflammation, and restoring proper biomechanics, which can alleviate pain and prevent future occurrences.
Here's how a chiropractor can help with plantar fasciitis:
1. Addressing Biomechanical Issues:
Spinal and Pelvic Alignment:
Misalignments in the spine and pelvis can affect weight distribution and increase stress on the plantar fascia, leading to pain. A chiropractor can assess and correct these misalignments to improve overall body mechanics and reduce strain on the feet.
Gait Analysis:
By analyzing how you walk, a chiropractor can identify imbalances or abnormalities that contribute to plantar fasciitis. This helps them tailor a treatment plan to correct these issues and promote a more balanced gait.
2. Manual Therapy Techniques:
Joint Mobilization:
Chiropractors use hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility in the feet, ankles, and surrounding areas. This can help reduce stiffness and improve range of motion, which is often restricted in plantar fasciitis.
Soft Tissue Therapy:
Techniques like myofascial release and massage therapy can help release tension in the muscles and fascia of the foot and lower leg. This can reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and promote healing.
3. Exercise and Stretching:
Targeted Exercises:
Chiropractors often prescribe specific exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the arch and improve flexibility in the foot and calf muscles.
Stretching:
Stretching the plantar fascia, calf muscles, and Achilles tendon can help alleviate tightness and improve flexibility.
4. Lifestyle and Ergonomic Advice:
Footwear Recommendations:
Chiropractors can advise on proper footwear with arch support and cushioning to reduce stress on the plantar fascia.
Activity Modifications:
They can also provide guidance on modifying activities to avoid aggravating the condition and promote healing.

08/18/2025

FACT of the Week:
Yes, acupuncture can help with inflammation. Studies suggest that acupuncture can modulate the body's inflammatory response through various mechanisms, including the nervous system and the release of anti-inflammatory substances. Research indicates that acupuncture can be effective in reducing inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis, respiratory diseases, and even acute appendicitis.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Nervous System Involvement:
Acupuncture can stimulate the nervous system, potentially activating the vagus nerve and influencing the release of hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline, which play a role in regulating inflammation.
Cytokine Modulation:
Acupuncture can affect the levels of cytokines, which are signaling molecules involved in inflammation, potentially reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing anti-inflammatory ones.
Immune Cell Regulation:
Acupuncture may influence the activity of immune cells, such as macrophages, contributing to a more balanced immune response and reduced inflammation.
Specific Acupuncture Points:
Studies have focused on the ST36 point (Zusanli) for its anti-inflammatory effects.
Conditions Studied:
Research has explored acupuncture's role in reducing inflammation related to conditions like arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and respiratory issues.
Timing and Intensity:
Research suggests that the timing and intensity of acupuncture treatment can influence its anti-inflammatory effects, with some studies indicating that high-intensity treatment during the peak of inflammation may worsen the condition, while preventive treatment can be beneficial.
Potential for Pain Relief:
Acupuncture's anti-inflammatory effects can also contribute to pain relief, as inflammation is often a major factor in pain conditions.
Further Research:
While research is promising, more studies are needed to fully understand the mechanisms and effectiveness of acupuncture for various inflammatory conditions.

Address

3338 Center Grove Drive, Ste 2
Dubuque, IA
52003

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5:30am
Wednesday 8am - 12pm
Thursday 8am - 5:30am
Friday 8am - 12pm

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